Exploring the Relation of Health-Promoting Behaviors to Role Participation and Health-Related Quality of Life in Women With Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Study

Abstract

We examined the relation of health-promoting behaviors to participation in life roles and health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) in women with multiple sclerosis. We used a correlational design. Frequency of health-promoting behaviors was obtained from the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II. Role participation was measured by the SF-36 Role-Physical, Role-Emotional, and Social Functioning scales, and HR-QOL was measured with the Physical and Mental Component scales. Eleven significant positive correlations were found among specific health-promoting behaviors (e.g., nutrition, stress management, physical activity, positive interpersonal relations, spiritual growth), role participation, and HR-QOL. The findings suggest that involvement in health-promoting behaviors is associated with greater participation in life roles and HR-QOL for women with multiple sclerosis. This study provides preliminary evidence for the use and development of health promotion in occupational therapy treatment.